AgriService BC webinars
Last updated on March 27, 2023AgriService BC webinars are broadcast monthly. Register for upcoming webinars today and mark your calendar. The line-up of on-demand webinars is updated regularly, so check back often to see what's new!
Attend from your desk or mobile device. If you are unable to attend a live session, access video recordings of past webinars from the list of Webinars on Demand.
Upcoming live webinars
There are currently no upcoming webinars.
AgriService BC webinars are broadcast live on Wednesdays at 2 PM Pacific Standard Time (P.S.T.). Register for upcoming webinars today and mark your calendar. The line-up of new webinars is updated regularly, so check back often to see what's new!
Webinars on demand
Alternative Nutrient Sources and Soil Amendments- Considerations for Tree Fruit Production
Date: May 13, 2022
Description: Products like manure and compost can be a valuable source of nutrients and contributor to soil productivity. As with any farm input, there are some points to consider in their use. The webinar discusses the pros and cons of these sources and how they might fit into your orchard. We will cover the basics of nutrient management, source types and attributes, on-farm composting possibilities, environmental considerations and good neighbour relations.
Webinar is hosted as part of the Tree Fruit Extension Pilot Project.
Agriculture Human Resource Series
Your business depends on the people who work for you. Learn more about how to manage your workforce in a series of webinars that promote human resource best practices. Webinars will be led by Jennifer Wright of the Canadian Agriculture Human Resource Council and will walk farm businesses through tips and tricks to manage workforce needs.
Recruitment and Retention
Date: March 29, 2020
Time: 10am to 11am
Description: People are a key component to any agricultural operation. It can be difficult to find enough of the right people to work in your operation. This webinar will cover the key steps to follow to successfully recruit and retain workers, including the impact of good recruitment and retention practices on your bottom line.
Workforce Planning and Performance Evaluation
Date: March 30, 2020
Time: 10am to 11am
Description: Do you know you need to hire but not sure how many people you need, how to define the job(s), and then how to ensure you are providing effective performance feedback once they are hired? This webinar will walk through the steps of effective workforce planning so you have the right number of workers in the right jobs at the right time.
Policies and Compensation
Date: March 31, 2020
Time: 10am to 11am
Description: Competition for talent is tough. An important part of attracting and retaining talent is having strong HR practices in place. This includes HR policies and good compensation. This webinar will cover the importance of HR policies, what’s required and what is best practice to have. It will also cover compensation best practices.
Health, Safety, and Illness
Date: April 1, 2020
Time: 10am to 11am
Description: Unsafe work practices can greatly increase injuries and lost productivity. In addition to the human cost of these workplace accidents, there is also a high financial cost. Learn about workplace health and safety best practices, legal requirements and how to implement policies to keep your workplace safe.
Presenter: Jennifer Wright, Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council
Biography: Jennifer’s strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities for agriculture producers and businesses started from growing up in both primary production and agri-business and continued by working directly with producers and agri-business on developing and executing effective HR strategies. Her experience as a strategic business advisor and consultant allows her to bring a unique perspective to developing solutions for a wide range of clients and their needs.
Good Agricultural Practices Webinar Series:
CanadaGAP: Preparing for your 2021 Harvest Audit
GAP Webinar #1: You can pass the audit! Hints for easier Traceability at the Farm and options for packing facilities
Date: Wednesday, March 17, 2021
Time: 9:00 am -11:50 am
Description: Join the first of a four part webinar series to get hints and tips on traceability at the farm and packing facilities. Hear from growers and traceability specialists on best practices for passing a Canada GAP audit.
GAP Webinar #2: Get going on your To Do List – its easier if you have a Plan!
Date: Thursday, March 18
Time: 9:00 am -11:50 am
Description: Join the second of a four part webinar series to learn more about how to plan and manage the Canada GAP process. Growers and industry specialists will speak on the importance of planning in food safety.
Video not available at this time.
GAP Webinar #3: Washing, Cleaning and Harvesting – it starts with you!
Date: Wednesday, March 24
Time: 9:00 am -11:50 am
Description: In this third of a four part series, speakers will address important issues including irrigation and potable water, pesticide equipment calibration, environmental farm plans, and more. The session will also speak to unique commodity requirements.
Video not available at this time.
GAP Webinar #4: Your product’s journey to the market place – a joint journey of packer and producer practices
Date: Thursday, March 25
Time: 9:00 am -11:50 am
Description: During this last session of the four part series, come on a joint journey of packer and producer practices. In this session, you will hear about grower and packer practices as well as new and innovative ways to keep your operations and products safe!
Video not available at this time.
Planning for Non-Family Farm Transition
Date: Wednesday, March 3, 2021
Presenter: Darcy Smith, Young Agrarians
Biography: Darcy Smith is the B.C. Land Matching Program (BCLMP) Manager for Young Agrarians, a farmer-to-farmer educational resource network. Darcy has spent the last decade working to support farmers and food systems for organizations like Nature’s Path and the Certified Organic Associations of B.C. As the first Land Matcher in B.C., she’s worked with many new entrants, seasoned farmers, and farmland holders across the province.
Description: This webinar provides both current and entering farmers with a framework for understanding transition of farms and farmland outside the family, along with information and considerations about different possible pathways to non-family transition. In this webinar, Darcy will introduce concepts and tools to apply to alternative farm transition, from setting a vision to identifying models and assessing feasibility, as well as case stories that highlight successful farm transitions outside the family.
When to Apply Manure: An Overview of the BC ARM Tool
Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Presenter: Josh Andrews, Nutrient Management Agrologist with BC Ministry of Agriculture
Biography: Josh Andrews is a Nutrient Management Agrologist at the BC Ministry of Agriculture. His role is currently focused on developing tools and information for BC farmers regarding the use of manures and fertilizers, providing guidance for soil sampling and testing, and assisting with other Ministry of Agriculture projects involving resource management. Josh holds an MSc. in Crop and Soil Science from the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia, US.
Description: New agricultural regulations in B.C. require that a risk assessment be completed in October, February, and March in high precipitation areas prior to spreading manure. This 30 minute webinar will introduce you to the BC Application Risk Management (ARM) Tool and how it can help you to determine when to apply manure and the risk of manure loss after an application. Josh will also provide a live demonstration on how to use the ARM tool, followed by a 15 minute question period to help address any questions you may have.
B.C. Small and Medium Sized Business Recovery Grant
Date: Thursday, February 4, 2021
Presenter: Liz Vickery, Executive Director, Small and Medium Sized Business Recovery Program, Ministry of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation
Biography: Liz Vickery is the Executive Director of the Small and Medium Sized Business Recovery Grant Program and is leading the implementation of a $345 million small and medium sized business economic recovery grant program. Previously she was Executive Director with BC Stats – the first female to lead the organization in 125 years. Liz is passionate about executive leadership excellence; seeing real value for stakeholders, customers, staff and citizens; and doing some good in the world along the way. Liz holds a Bsc Commerce, in addition to both a Human Resources Excellence and Executive Data Science Masters Degrees.
Description: Provides an overview of the support available to the BC food and beverage processors that have been impacted by covid through the BC Small Business Recovery Grant program, specifically in relation to eligibility, key application components and what the evaluator is looking for in applications. The webinar will also cover other support offered by the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation.
Regulated Marketing Opportunities in Agriculture
Date: Thursday, January 14, 2021
Presenters: Wanda Gorsuch (Manager, Issues and Planning, BCFIRB) & Kirsten Pedersen (Executive Director, BCFIRB).
Biography: Wanda Gorsuch has worked for BCFIRB and with BC’s regulated marketing boards since 2011. Prior to that she worked in the “other half” of agriculture as a contractor on projects such as the BC Environmental Farm Plan Biodiversity Guide and the TLC Guide to Farmland Access Agreements.
Kirsten Pedersen has been the Executive Director of the BC Farm Industry Review Board since 2016, and has been with the BC Public Service in various ministries and senior capacities, both policy and operational, since 1990.
Description: Interested in growing regulated products but don’t know how to get started? This webinar will provide an overview of the basics: what regulated marketing is, what regulated products are grown in BC, some of the pros and cons of growing regulated products, and entry opportunities. As part of this webinar, you will also learn about the BC Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB) and its roles in supervising BC’s regulated agricultural marketing boards and hearing appeals of marketing board decisions.
Farm Complaints 101: What you need to know about the BC Farm Industry Review Board and the Farm Practices Protection (Right to Farm) Act
Date: Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Time: 10 am - 11 am
Presenters: Gloria Chojnacki (Case Manager, BCFIRB) & Kirsten Pedersen (Executive Director, BCFIRB)
Biography: Gloria Chojnacki has been with the BC Farm Industry Review Board in various capacities since 2004 and has been in the role of Case Manager since 2008. One of her roles as Case Manager is to oversee the complaint process under the Farm Practices (Right to Farm) Act (FPPA).
Kirsten Pedersen has been the Executive Director of the BC Farm Industry Review Board since 2016, and has been with the BC Public Service in various ministries and senior capacities, both policy and operational, since 1990.
Description: Farming isn’t always a tidy business, and sometimes this can result in conflicts between neighbours. This webinar will provide an overview of Farm Protection Practices Act, what it means for you and your farm, and the protections it provides, specifically in relation to nuisances such as odour, noise, dust, or other disturbances. We will also discuss the role of farmers in conflict prevention, and provide an overview of relevant resources that are available. The webinar will also cover the role of BC Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB) in both formal and informal dispute resolution.
Small Farm Business Acceleration Pilot Program
Date: Pre-recorded webinar
Presenter: Angela Boss, BC Ministry of Agriculture
Biography: Angela Boss is a Regional Agrologist for the Sea to Sky and Central Fraser Valley with the BC Ministry of Agriculture. She is a Professional Agrologist who has worked around the world assisting smallholder farmers to improve their productivity. Angela has a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of British Columbia and a Master's degree in Human Security and Peacebuilding from Royal Roads University
Description: This presentation on the Small Farm Business Acceleration Pilot Program, or SFBA, will provide an overview of the program including the application process, program eligibility, and what types of infrastructure and equipment are eligible for funding. During the webinar, examples of eligible projects will also be provided.
B.C. Land Matching Program: Farmland Leasing 101
Date: Thursday, July 30, 2020
Time: 11 AM - 12 PM
Presenter: Darcy Smith
Biography: Darcy Smith is the B.C. Land Matching Program (BCLMP) Manager for Young Agrarians. Darcy has spent the last decade working to support farmers and food systems for organizations like Nature’s Path and the Certified Organic Associations of B.C. As the first Land Matcher in B.C., she’s worked with many new entrants, seasoned farmers, and farmland holders across the province. Darcy also edits the BC Organic Grower, a quarterly magazine showcasing organic farming across B.C.
Description: Provides an overview of the support available to farmers and farmland holders through the B.C. Land Matching Program, as well as a foundation in land leasing, legal considerations, and how to build and maintain stable land agreements that are mutually beneficial. This webinar is applicable to farmers of all production types and sizes looking to start or grow their farm business on leased land, and farmland holders who are interested in making their land available for agriculture.
Farm Classification
Date: Pre-recorded webinar
Description: Join BC Assessment for a 6-part webinar series to learn more about Farm Classification including step-by-step guides for completing applications and an overview of farm property inspections and the appeal process.
Module 1: Overview
Module 2: How to complete a general application
Module 3: How to complete a developing farm application
​ Module 4: How to complete a lease farm application
​Module 5: Farm property inspections
Module 6: Appeal process
Capturing the growing COVID-19 - related domestic seafood demand
Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Time: 1 pm - 2 pm PST
Presenter: Kristen Kirby (Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Inspection Specialist – Fish), Brian Barker (BC Ministry of Agriculture, Fish Inspector), Darah Gibson (BC Ministry of Agriculture, Industry Specialist – Marine Fisheries and Seafood), and Eliane Verret-Fournier (BC Ministry of Agriculture, Manager- Market Development)
Description: Seafood markets are changing around the world due to COVID-19, so how can you scale your business to capture the growing domestic demand? This webinar will provide an overview of resources to pivot your business to sell product domestically. A panel and discussion will cover health and safety, relevant licensing and regulations, Ministry marketing resources and other supports for alternative marketing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 and the Agricultural Workplace: Resources for Reducing Risk
Date: Thursday, May 21, 2020
Time: 9 am - 10 am PST
Presenter: Chad Stewart
Biography: Chad Stewart is AgSafeBC’s North Okanagan Consultant and lives in Kamloops. Chad has a PhD in plant sciences and a post doc in cereal crop pathology. He specializes in dairies and ranching.
Description: During these challenging times, it may be difficult to navigate the protocols and expectations surrounding COVID-19 in the agricultural workplace. AgSafe BC is available to help. This webinar will provide an overview of the relevant resources and training that can help keep agricultural employees safe while complying with the Federal, Provincial and WorkSafe BC requirements. We will also discuss the requirements surrounding housing for the Temporary Foreign Workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rethinking Good Agricultural Practices in the time of COVID-19
Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Time: 10 am - 11 am PST
Presenter: Elsie Friesen, BC Ministry of Agriculture Food Safety Specialist
Biography: Elsie provides technical food safety expertise, develops food safety and good agricultural practices training resources, manages projects, facilitates food safety workshops and responds to food safety issues. She has a Master’s degree in education from Simon Fraser University, a Degree in Environmental Health Sciences from the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and a Diploma in Food Technology Administration - Food and Nutrition Management, Food Science and Technology from the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science Technology (SIAST).
Description: In light of COVID-19, consumers are particularly concerned about the handling and safe production of fresh food. This webinar will highlight the importance of traceability for small-medium growers, what to expect in a recall, and practical examples of how to incorporate good agricultural practices into your day-to-day farm production.
Pivoting your Farm Production and Marketing Plan During COVID-19
Date: Thursday, April 23, 2020
Time: 10 am - 11 am PST
Presenter: Chris Bodnar
Biography: Chris Bodnar is a mixed vegetable farmer in Abbotsford. He has farmed at Glen Valley Organic Farm for 14 years. During this time he has also worked with the Young Agrarians as a mentor in their Business Mentorship Network program and taught the Business of Agriculture course at Kwantlen Polytechnic University's Sustainable Agriculture program. Chris is also a consultant for the BC Agri-Business Planning Program.
Description: Many growers are facing uncertainty this season as their marketing channels have changed or disappeared. With information changing daily, it is difficult to know how to plan for the months ahead. However, at this early point in the season, it is still possible to make changes to crop and/or marketing plans. This webinar will provide growers with a framework for identifying their risks and making plans for their production and marketing. We will discuss how these changes can be used to help mitigate risk. Content will include using cost of production analysis to understand impacts of crop choices and opportunities for accessing alternate marketing outlets. This webinar is most applicable to small- and medium-sized farm operators.
AgriStability Program: Is it right for you?
Date: Thursday, April 2, 2020
Time: 11 am - 12 pm
Presenters: Dalraj Boparai, BC Ministry of Agriculture
Biography: Dalraj Boparai was born and raised in Kelowna, and has been working as a Verifier with the AgriStability program since 2015. She has hosted many AgriStability information sessions and presentations around the Okanagan to various commodity groups.
Description:
The BC Ministry of Agriculture’s AgriStability program provides Canadian agricultural producers with an ongoing whole-farm risk management tool that provides protection against large declines that threaten the viability of their farm and are beyond their capacity to manage. This webinar will provide detailed overview of the program parameters and processes, recent changes and eligibility criteria.
Record Keeping for your Farm Business
Date: Wednesday, March 4, 2020
Presenters: Andrea Gunner
Biography: Andrea Gunner, P.Ag has been providing business planning, agricultural marketing and economic consulting services for individual farm clients, aboriginal communities, industry associations, co-operatives, community groups, non-government organisations and government at the municipal, provincial and federal levels since 1989. Andrea is an approved Business Development consultant with the BC Agri-Business Planning Program and the BC Indigenous Agriculture Development Program.
Description:
Thinking about improving your record keeping system? Curious about the range of integrated production and financial tracking options available?
Join Andrea Gunner, P.Ag. as she reviews a variety of computer-based record keeping systems that integrate production records with financial record keeping.
Video not available at this time.
Cost of Production: Understanding your Costs for Livestock and Crops
Date: Thursday, January 23, 2020
Time: 10 am - 11 am
Presenters: Andrea Gunner
Biography: Andrea Gunner, P.Ag has been providing business planning, agricultural marketing and economic consulting services for individual farm clients, aboriginal communities, industry associations, co-operatives, community groups, non-government organisations and government at the municipal, provincial and federal levels since 1989. Andrea is an approved Business Development consultant with the BC Agri-Business Planning Program and the BC Indigenous Agriculture Development Program.
Description:
Learn tips for calculating your own costs of production by enterprise from Andrea Gunner, P.Ag.
Confused about which parts of your operation are making or losing money? Join Andrea Gunner, P.Ag. as she demonstrates how to go about calculating your own costs of production by enterprise whether livestock, horticultural or mixed operation.
Video not available at this time.
Good to Grow 4: Distribution & Pricing
Date: Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Presenters: Andrea Gray-Grant is the founder of Good to Grow Natural Products Coaching (Good to Grow)
Biography: Andrea is a 25-year veteran of the natural and organic food industry. She has represented iconic natural food brands (Yves Veggie Cuisine, Nature’s Path, Rice Dream and Happy Planet Foods), launched her own brand (Tarragon Foods) and manufacturing plant and has taught, coached and mentored hundreds of BC local food and beverage processors.
Description: Critical to the success of your launch into the retail market channel is understanding your price, margins and the cost of getting your product to market. Learn the fundamentals of calculating your margin and retail price point as well as the pros and cons of distribution.
B.C. Food Security Task Force: Regional Engagement
Date: Thursday, November 28, 2019
Presenters: Peter Dhillon & Lenore Newman, B.C. Food Security Task Force
Description: This presentation will provide an overview of the Food Security Task Force, which has been appointed by the Premier to provide recommendations on how to unlock the potential of B.C.’s agritech sector. “Agritech” is the fusion of technology and innovation applied to the agriculture, food and seafood sectors. It has significant potential to address production issues, arising from a growing population, and increase B.C.’s competitiveness.
While the B.C. agritech sector is growing and showing significant potential, there is much more that can be done. The Task Force wants to hear from British Columbians across our province, about how we build on B.C.’s competitive advantages – our geography and diverse agricultural landscape, thriving tech sector and strong research community – to become a world leader… to develop technologies that will enhance the sustainability of the sector and help solve global issues related to climate change and food insecurity.
The presentation will be 15 minutes, with the remainder of the time for discussion and questions.
Video not available at this time.
Eight Key Success Factors in Food Aggregation
Date: Monday, November 25, 2019
Presenters: Darren Stott of Greenchain Consulting and Janine de la Salle of Urban Food Strategies
Biographies:
Darren Stott, BSc, Principal, Greenchain Consulting
Darren is a food supply chain expert with over 20 years of experience. Darren has worked in food retail, category management, inventory management and most recently as a consultant supporting agri-food businesses and organizations in direct marketing, specialising in food hubs. He has worked with clients all over North America from planning, launching, operating and transitioning food hubs.
Janine de la Salle, MA | RPP | MCIP, Principal, Urban Food Strategies
Janine de la Salle brings over 15 years of experience in building healthy communities and resilient food and agriculture systems with government, university, private and non-profit sectors. Janine collaborates widely to link-up the value chain for small to medium scale enterprises through local food infrastructure.
Description: Aggregation combines products from multiple food producers to be sold through a single channel to buyers. The purpose of this seminar is to share what factors make food aggregation initiatives successful, what it looks like in BC, some of the common challenges and experiences from BC so that you understand what it takes to put your initiative in the best position for success, from an early stage.
Good to Grow 3: Digital Strategy
Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2019
Presenter: Lindsay O’Donnell is the Founder of Piquant Marketing.
Biography: Founder and Marketing Director, Lindsay is the girl that has energy. She’s someone who has heard ‘You have too many things on the go!’ her whole life. Blame the coffee addiction or Beyonce but seeing her sit still is as rare as finding a yeti in Rihanna’s latest fashion line.
For Lindsay, food became a solution for so many things: activism, community connections, and even to clear the mind. It now is a personal statement of her values and beliefs.
Having worked in all different industries, volunteered with countless organizations, and gone to school to pursue marketing she felt a calling to start her own company, bringing all of those experiences together.
Seeing that marketing could support and create positive change on plates and in communities was how Piquant was founded. Lindsay is convinced that one day she will discover down-time when she can sip a glass of wine, cook, and then relax watching Keith Morrison on Dateline.
Description: Understand how to focus your digital marketing efforts and receive invaluable tips from food-centric digital media expert, Lindsay O‘Donnell, founder of Piquant Marketing.
Branding, Packaging and Labelling
Date: Wednesday, November 6, 2019
Presenter: Andrea Gray-Grant is the founder of Good to Grow Natural Products Coaching (Good to Grow)
Biography: Andrea is a 25-year veteran of the natural and organic food industry. She has represented iconic natural food brands (Yves Veggie Cuisine, Nature’s Path, Rice Dream and Happy Planet Foods), launched her own brand (Tarragon Foods) and manufacturing plant and has taught, coached and mentored hundreds of BC local food and beverage processors.
Description: Having an effective, eye-catching package on shelf is important but ensuring your product is compliant is essential. Learn how to make sure you focus on both as you navigate label design and regulations.
Opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the author and not necessarily those of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada or the BC Ministry of Agriculture. The Government of Canada, the BC Ministry of Agriculture and their director’s agents, employees or contractors will not be liable for any claims, damages or losses of any kind whatsoever arising out of the use of, or reliance upon, this information.
Farm Food Safety: How to Travel the Road to Certification
Date: Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Presenter: Elsie Friesen is the BC Ministry of Agriculture Food Safety Specialist
Biography: Elsie provides technical food safety expertise, develops food safety and good agricultural practices training resources, manages projects, facilitates food safety workshops and responds to food safety issues. She has a Master’s degree in education from Simon Fraser University, a diploma in Environmental Health Sciences from the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and a Diploma in Food Technology Administration - Food and Nutrition Management, Food Science and Technology from the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science Technology (SIAST).
Description: This webinar on Farm Food Safety explains GAP Certification to make producers aware of the CanadaGAP program and what certification entails.
Market Research to be Market Ready
Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2019
Presenter: Andrea Gray-Grant is the founder of Good to Grow Natural Products Coaching (Good to Grow).
Biography: Andrea is a 25-year veteran of the natural and organic food industry. She has represented iconic natural food brands (Yves Veggie Cuisine, Nature’s Path, Rice Dream and Happy Planet Foods), launched her own brand (Tarragon Foods) and manufacturing plant and has taught, coached and mentored hundreds of BC local food and beverage processors.
Description: Entry into the retail market channel requires planning, positioning and foresight. Learn how to research your category and product to position your brand for success in the retail market.
Opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the author and not necessarily those of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada or the BC Ministry of Agriculture. The Government of Canada, the BC Ministry of Agriculture and their director’s agents, employees or contractors will not be liable for any claims, damages or losses of any kind whatsoever arising out of the use of, or reliance upon, this information.
Hemp Production, Challenges and Opportunities
Date: Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Presenter: Dane Froese
Biography:
Dane is an experienced agronomist who, besides his current position with the Manitoba Ministry of Agriculture, has worked as an agronomist for Paterson Global Foods and Richardson International. He completed his B.Sc. Agriculture in Plant Sciences at the University of Manitoba.
Description: The Manitoba industrial hemp industry has developed over the last two decades and now has 15,000 acres of annual production. Dane's presentation will focus on the challenges and opportunities for accessing the hemp market.
Video not available at this time.
Organic Certification Regulation in B.C.
Date: Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Presenter:
Karina Sakalauskas, acting Organics Specialist at the BC Ministry of Agriculture
Emma Holmes, Organics Industry Specialist at the BC Ministry of Agriculture
Biography:
Karina has been with the BC Ministry of Agriculture since 2017 when she undertook the role of Acting Berry Specialist. She is from Argentina and attended the Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata where she completed her MSc in Agronomic Engineering.
Emma started with the Ministry of Agriculture in 2017 as the New Entrant Agrologist. She has an MSc in Soil Science from The University of British Columbia.
Description: This presentation will provide an update on the recent Organic Certification Regulation and what it means for producers, processors, and retailers in B.C.
Adaption Pathways: How to Plan When the Climate...Keeps Changing?
Date: Wednesday, August 7, 2019
Presenter: Liese Coulter
Biography:
Dr Liese Coulter received her PhD from Griffith University in Australia where her research focused on how climate knowledge is used to envision, communicate, and manage climate change adaptation. She brings experience in the adaptation pathways approach and is excited about engaging decision-makers in future thinking.
Description: This presentation explains the adaptation pathways approach and introduces both a user guide and a well-referenced technical framework. The three main benefits of adaptation pathway are to: better apply climate knowledge so agriculture becomes less vulnerable; structure long-range planning to include agriculture in community adaptation, and identify climate, social and economic triggers for transformation.
ALC Oil and Gas Delegation Agreement
Date: Wednesday, July 17, 2019
Presenter: Martin Collins, Director of Policy and Planning, ALC
Biogrpahy: Martin has been with the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) since he was a summer student in 1990. Currently, he is the Director of Policy and Planning, ALC and has been the staff member responsible for the the Peace River Regional District ALR for more than 20 years.
Description: This presentation will provide an overview of the ALC’s 44 year interaction with the Oil and Gas industry in the Peace River Regional District, including a review of the ALC’s philosophy towards Oil and Gas development, an overview of its pro-active administrative actions, the changing nature of the Oil and Gas industry, and the evolving Delegation Agreement between the ALC and the Oil and Gas Commission (OGC).
The Impact of Rising Interest Rates on Agriculture
Date: Wednesday, June 19, 2019
Presenter: Tristan Skolrud is an Assistant Professor in the department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Saskatchewan.
Description: The impact on farming in an environment of increased interest rates.
Bacteriophages and their Applications in Foods
Date: Wednesday, June 5, 2019
Time: 2 pm P.S.T
Presenter: Dr. Siyun Wang, Principal Investigator of the Wang Lab of Molecular Food Safety
Biography: Dr. Wang is an Associate Professor of Food Safety Engineering at the Faculty of Land and Food Systems, where she conducts research on microbial safety in the Ulrich Freybe Food Safety Laboratory. She received her B.S. degree in Pharmacy from Fudan University (2005) and Ph.D. degree in Biology from the Institute for Food Safety and Health at Illinois Tech (2010). Prior to joining UBC in 2013, she was a postdoctoral associate at Cornell University.
Description: What bacteriophages (phages) are, why there is growing interest in using phages in foods, what phage preparations are currently available for agriculture and food products and future applications of phages to food products.
Emerging Sectors in BC Aquaculture Aquaponics
Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2019
Presenter: Myron Roth is the BC Ministry of Agriculture Team Lead, Aquaculture and Marine Fisheries
Biography: Myron is a Biologist with 30 years of experience in aquaculture, biotechnology, and veterinary vaccine and drug research and development, quality systems, regulatory affairs, and business development. He holds PhDs in Fish Pathology, from the University of Sterling (Scotland) and Zoology, from the University of British Columbia.
Description: An overview of aquaponics and its potential in BC.
Hazelnut Market Outlook
Date: Monday, April 8, 2019
Presenter: Douglas Hart is the president of Hart & Associates Management Consultants Ltd., a senior management advisory firm focused on the food processing and agricultural sectors.
Biography: Douglas has been the President at Hart & Associates Management Consultants Ltd. for over 31 years. He has a BA in economics from Western University, an MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University.
Description: Douglas will provide a market assessment for hazelnuts, including, opportunities and potential prices for hazelnut growers.
Seven Characteristics of Top Producers
Date: Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Presenter: Heather Watson is the Executive Director of Farm Management Canada (FMC)
Biography: Heather obtained her Bachelor’s from the University of Guelph, and went on to obtain her Master’s degree from the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom. Heather grew up in Strathroy, Ontario and now lives in Ottawa.
Description: Seven management practices driving farm success, the financial gain farmers can expect from adopting these practices and how to make farm business management a reality on your farm.
Retail Trends and Their Impact on Producers & Processors: Webinar 2
Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Presenters:
- Peter Chapman is a Retail Marketer, Author, Speaker & Consultant with SKUFood
- Gary Morton is a Consultant, Coach, Trainer, Author & Speaker with SKUFood
Biographies:
Peter Chapman is a food marketing specialist with a commerce degree from Mount Allison University. With over 19 years as Senior Director of Merchandising at Loblaw Companies, 11 years as the president of GPS Consulting and three years as a partner in SKU Food, Peter has considerable experience in developing relationships with suppliers throughout the supply chain, to retail merchandising.
Gary Morton is a professional agrologist with a BSc Agr. University of Guelph. He is also certified as a Family Business Succession Planning Advisor, Silver Toastmaster, and Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF). He is co-author of the best-selling Farm Management Canada books, “Building Added Value through Farm Diversification” and “Business Planning, Understanding, Preparing and Using.”
Description: Food trends come from everywhere. To understand what is right for you and your business-define the consumer buying your products; then figure out which trends apply. You cannot be everything to everybody. Topics include:
- How / what people eat
- Agri-food depends on innovation & technology
- Food safety can be a competitive advantage
Retail Trends and Their Impact on Producers & Processors: Webinar 1
Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2019
Presenters:
- Peter Chapman is a Retail Marketer, Author, Speaker & Consultant with SKUFood
- Gary Morton is a Consultant, Coach, Trainer, Author & Speaker with SKUFood
Biographies:
Peter Chapman is a food marketing specialist with a commerce degree from Mount Allison University. With over 19 years as Senior Director of Merchandising at Loblaw Companies, 11 years as the president of GPS Consulting and three years as a partner in SKU Food, Peter has considerable experience in developing relationships with suppliers throughout the supply chain, to retail merchandising.
Gary Morton is a professional agrologist with a BSc Agr. University of Guelph. He is also certified as a Family Business Succession Planning Advisor, Silver Toastmaster, and Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF). He is co-author of the best-selling Farm Management Canada books, “Building Added Value through Farm Diversification” and “Business Planning, Understanding, Preparing and Using.”
Description: Food trends come from everywhere. To understand what is right for you and your business-define the consumer buying your products; then figure out which trends apply. You cannot be everything to everybody. Topics include:
- Whole Foods 2019 trends
- Acosta 2019 food trends
- Marketing Magazine 2019 trends
Introduction to Agricultural Soils
Date: Thursday, March 21, 2019
Presenter: Josh Andrews is a BC Ministry of Agriculture Nutrient Management Agrologist
Biography: Josh came to the Ministry from The University of Georgia Extension Service and has experience working on agricultural and natural resources extension and outreach programming. Josh has a BSc in Agriculture and an MSc in Crop and Soil Sciences from The University of Georgia.
In his spare time, Josh can be found hiking, bicycling, and playing disc golf.
Description: Knowing the chemical, physical, and biological components of a soil and how they interact with one another is key to creating a healthy soil environment for productive crop growth. The webinar will feature management practices for agricultural soils, including interpreting a soil test.
The Cherry Industry: A Made in B.C. Success Story
Date: Wednesday, February 27, 2019
Presenters: Carl Withler, Industry Specialist for Treefruits and Grapes, B.C. Ministry of Agriculture
Biography: Carl has worked for the B.C. government since 1984 and has been the Ministry of Agriculture’s treefruit and grape specialist since 2015. He and his wife’s family have owned an orchard in Osoyoos for 25 years. Carl and Isabel live in South East Kelowna, where they grow peaches in the backyard, raise rabbits, buy pears from a friend and buy locally raised beef and lamb.
Withler is also an accident prone snowboarder, mountain biker and coach for his teenage sons’ soccer teams.
Description: A snapshot of the success story that is B.C.'s cherry industry.
What to do When Your Birds are Sick
Date: Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Presenter: Dr. Tony Redford, Veterinary Avian Pathologist, B.C. Ministry of Agriculture.
Biography: Dr. Tony Redford is originally from Kamloops and completed the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon. Tony’s job is primarily focused on poultry, but he also has a heavy caseload of a variety of wild bird species and has participated in a number of wildlife projects. When not covered in feathers in the post-mortem room, ​Tony can be found hiking, backpacking and snowshoeing in BC and Washington with his wife Melissa.​
Description: An overview of recommended procedures for small flock poultry owners in the face of a disease event, including recognizing disease, self-quarantine and lab submission.
Premises ID Online Registration Wizard Demonstration
Date: Thursday, January 17, 2019
Presenter: Anders Hopperstead, Premises ID GIS Analyst, B.C. Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, B.C.
Biography: Anders has over 20 years of experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis and development. He has managed of the BC Premises ID program database since 2013.
Description: Screen-by-screen demonstration of the B.C. Premises ID online registration wizard
Field to Packer: Post Harvest Methods for Fruit Quality
Date: Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Presenter: Peter Toivonen, Ph.D. Research Scientist, Postharvest Physiology, AAFC, Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre, Summerland, B.C.
Biography: Peter is an expert in the post-harvest physiology of fresh-picked fruits and vegetables, has a lengthy list of publications and has a strong international profile in the field of postharvest research and science of fruits and vegetables.
Description: Production, harvest and handling practices to optimize fruit quality.
Presentation Materials
Batty About Bats: Why Bat Health is Important for B.C. Agriculture
Date: Wednesday, December 5, 2018
Presenter: Dr. Glenna McGregor, Veterinary Pathologist, B.C. Ministry of Agriculture
Biography: Glenna joined the Animal Health Center with the Ministry of Agriculture in British Columbia as a diagnostic pathologist in October, 2015. She enjoys working with all species of Canadian wildlife, with an especial fondness for bats.
Description: Overview of bats in B.C. agriculture.
From NAFTA to USMCA: What Does it Mean for Agriculture?
Date: Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Presenter: Danny Le Roy, Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Lethbridge
Biography: Danny teaches courses in agricultural systems modeling, commodity marketing, agricultural policy and micro-economics. He has been involved in numerous studies involving systems modelling of farms in Canada and assessments of agricultural policy and trade alternatives. In 2004 and in 2008, he received the Agricultural Students Association Distinguished Teaching Award.
Description: Overview of the USMCA trade deal and its impact on the B.C. agriculture industry.
Presentation Materials
Farm Diversification Through Agri-Tourism
Date: Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Presenter: Nicole Vaugeois, Associate Vice President, Scholarship, Research and Creative Activity, Vancouver Island University (VIU)
Biography: Nicole is currently a Director on the Board of Destination BC, the Travel and Tourism Research Association (Canadian Chapter), and Innovation Island. She has held past Board positions on the BC Rural Network, Tourism Vancouver Island, the Canadian Rural Revitalization Foundation and the Tourism Leadership Committee for the City of Nanaimo.
Description: A discussion of farm diversification through Agri-Tourism.
Grow Feed Buy
Recorded: Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Presenter: James Street, Manager, Food Processing, British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture
Biography: James provides strategic and technical advice based on a thorough analysis of the food processing sector and its current and emerging issues. Passionate about the BC food sectors, James has specialties in: seafood, locally sourced products, kitchen efficiency, staff retention, local food systems, waste management, meat cutting, product/menu development and cost control methods.
Description: Ministry programs to help food processors improve business skills, find efficiencies and increase revenues. Topics include the Grow BC, Feed BC, Buy BC strategy, the Canadian Agriculture Partnership (CAP), an overview of ministry programs/initiatives, and LEAN success stories for food processors.
So You're Thinking of Getting Sheep or Goats...
Recorded: October 10, 2018
Presenter: Dr. Glenna McGregor, Diagnostic Pathologist, British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture
Biography: Glenna joined the Animal Health Center with the Ministry of Agriculture in British Columbia as a diagnostic pathologist in October, 2015. She enjoys working with all species of Canadian wildlife, with an especial fondness for bats.
Description: Sheep and goat health for small scale operations.
Introduction and Overview of Cooperatives in Agriculture
Recorded: September 26, 2018
Presenters: Brett Fairbairn, Incoming President of Thompson River University
Biography: Brett's research and teaching are concerned with the history and interdisciplinary study of democracy, social movements, and co‑operative enterprises in Canada and around the world.
Description: An introduction to the formation of various types of agriculture cooperatives, including the history of cooperatives in North America, cooperative principles, different types of cooperatives, governance and strategy, and how to form an agriculture cooperative.
Maintaining the Safety of Fresh Produce by Monitoring the Quality of Irrigation Water
Recorded: April 18, 2018
Presenters:
- Justin Falardeau, PhD Researcher, UBC Land and Food Systems
- Dr. Siyun Wang, Research Supervisor, UBC Land and Food Systems
- Elsie Friesen, Food Safety and Education Specialist, Ministry of Agriculture
Description: An introduction to best practices and sampling techniques to maintain the safety of fresh produce and monitor the microbial quality of agriculture surface water.
Land Based Aquaculture Opportunities for New Entrants
Recorded: March 21, 2018
Presenter: Myron Roth, Ph.D., P.Ag., Industry Specialist – Aquaculture & Seafood, B.C. Ministry of Agriculture
Overview: This webinar provides an overview of design, permitting and financial considerations for small scale land-based fish farms
New and Emerging Pests - Army Worm & Western Corn Rootworm
Recorded: February 21, 2018
Presenter: Tracy Hueppelsheuser, Entomologist, B.C. Ministry of Agriculture
Overview: Learn about two new pests to B.C. and what can be done to monitor and control them.
Groundwater Licensing - What You Need to Know
Recorded: January 17, 2018
Presenters:
- Emily Elsiger, Groundwater Protection officer, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development (FLNRORD)
- Andrei Dmitriev, Natural Resource Specialist, FrontCounter BC, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development (FLNRORD).
Biographies:
Emily’s primary responsibility is to carry out statutory responsibilities to promote and verify compliance with the Water Sustainability Act and Groundwater Protection Regulation, and to provide technical expertise on groundwater protection and management issues within the South Coast Region.
Andrei focuses on land and water authorizations by assisting clients & stakeholders with licences, permits, registrations and other authorizations to utilize the Province's natural resources.
Overview: Join FrontCounter BC to learn about Water Sustainability Act, how to apply for your agricultural groundwater licence, and important deadlines.
Who Gets the Farm and When
Recorded: March 2011
Presenter: Elaine Froese, Farm Family Coach, Boissevain, Manitoba
Biography: Elaine Froese is a professional speaker, writer, and coach who specializes in helping farm families work through issues surrounding succession, business or that family favorite – communication.
Overview: When it comes to succession issues and "who gets the farm" – many families just don’t want to talk about it. It is time for practical tools for courageous conversations.
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